The Coming Home Checklist: Plan Your Reentry

When you’re close to coming home, it can feel like there are a million things to do — and no roadmap. That’s why the New York State DOCCS put together the Coming Home Checklist, a free guide to help you prepare for life after incarceration.

You can find it here: doccs.ny.gov/coming-home-checklist

It includes practical steps and reminders, such as:

• Gather your personal documents (ID, birth certificate, Social Security card)

• Make a list of places to contact about housing and employment

• Enroll in health insurance and reconnect with medical care

• Check your eligibility for benefits

• Plan how you’ll get transportation to appointments and job interviews

It even includes space for you to write your own notes, goals, and action steps.

Coming home is hard, but you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Use the checklist to stay organized and take it one step at a time. Every step you take is proof: You are human. You are rebuilding. You are not alone.

📌 Download the checklist here: doccs.ny.gov/coming-home-checklist